Carlo Ancelotti, the esteemed manager of Real Madrid, is scheduled to stand trial on April 2, 2025, facing allegations of tax fraud concerning his tenure with the club during the 2014-2015 season. Prosecutors accuse the 65-year-old Italian of evading over €1 million in taxes by misreporting his income and utilizing shell companies to conceal earnings from image rights. The prosecution has called for a prison sentence of four years and nine months.
The charges detail that Ancelotti, despite declaring himself a tax resident in Spain and residing in Madrid, only reported his direct salary from Real Madrid. He allegedly failed to declare additional income derived from image rights, which were funneled through entities without substantial activity outside Spain, aiming to evade tax obligations.
Ancelotti has consistently denied these allegations, expressing confidence in the judicial process. He stated, “I have total confidence in the law and in justice. I’m not worried but I am obviously annoyed if they say that I’ve committed fraud, but, once again, I have total confidence in justice. I’m really looking forward to testifying on Wednesday.”
The timing of the trial is notably sensitive for Real Madrid, as it occurs between significant matches: the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad on April 1 and the Champions League quarter-final first leg versus Arsenal on April 8.
This case adds Ancelotti to a list of high-profile football figures who have faced legal challenges related to tax issues in Spain, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, José Mourinho, and Diego Costa. Spain has notably intensified efforts to address tax avoidance among sports celebrities in recent years.
If found guilty, Ancelotti could face the proposed prison sentence. However, under Spanish law, sentences of less than two years for first-time offenders can be served under probation, potentially allowing him to avoid actual imprisonment.
As the trial approaches, Ancelotti maintains his innocence and looks forward to clearing his name. The football community and fans worldwide await developments, given Ancelotti’s distinguished career and the potential implications for Real Madrid’s upcoming fixtures.
